TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The following generally relates to exercise equipment and more specifically relates to weightlifting equipment such as dumbbells, weight plates, and barbells.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Weightlifting is the process of lifting weights to develop muscle mass and tone. There are many apparatuses available for weightlifting including resistance machines such as cable machines; and free weights such as kettlebells, dumbbells, barbells, and weight plates. Depending on their ability and preference, the user is generally able to choose the amount of weight they wish to lift. Resistance machines generally offer a wide range of weights such as from 5 lbs to 200 lbs, with increments of 10 lbs. While resistance machines are highly customizable, they are also very expensive and bulky.

[0003] On the other hand, free weights such as kettle bells, dumbbells, and weight plates are inexpensive and typically come in a variety of shapes and sizes. However, additional weights cannot generally be added to increase the weight of kettlebells and dumbbells, and therefore, these are not customizable by the user, unless the user has a variety of sizes available.

[0004] Dumbbells are typically lifted using only one hand and can be used for exercises such as single-handed bicep curls, tricep curls, lateral and anterior arm raises, rows, and shoulder flies to name a few. The barbell is typically lifted using two hands and can be used for exercises such as, but not limited to, two-handed bicep curls, deadlifts, cleans, snatches, jerks, rows, front squats, back squats, and overhead presses. Barbells and dumbbells typically comprise a bar having two weighted ends. Sometimes, additional weights in the shape of discs, called plates, can be added to either ends of the barbells to increase the weight. Barbells are therefore highly customizable and generally offer a very wide range of weights such as from 5 lbs to over 400 lbs, with increments of 5 lbs, in one instance.

[0005] Figures 1a to 1c show a typical Olympic weightlifting bar and plates which make up the prior art. The bar 2, as a central portion 4 wherein a user with grip the apparatus. Receiving portions 6 and 8 are position at either end of the central portion and are configured to receive one or more plates 10 as shown in figure 1b. If a user requires more weight, additional weights can be added, as shown in figure 1c. The plate or plates 10 are typically secured to the bar using a clamping arrangement known in the prior art. 1

RECTIFIED SHEET (RULE 91.1) [0006] This method of adding and removing weight is time consuming and requires a substantial pause in a user’s workout routine in order to remove and/or add plates 10. For a substantial range of weight options, the user must have a wide range of plates from which to choose, which can be quite expensive. Furthermore, The storage of a plethora of plates of various sizes requires a substantial space which is typically not suitable for small or home gyms.

[0007] There remains a need for a customizable and compact alternative to traditional plates.

SUMMARY

The following provides a modular weight-lifting plate apparatus that is fully customizable, easy-to-use, and that can be stored easily. Specifically, an adjustable dumbbell or barbell plate is provided. The adjustable weightlifting apparatus comprises a frame configured to removably engage with one or more weighted components. The weighted components are preferably set within the frame to be flush therewith. In a preferred embodiment, the weighted components are held in the frame using a tongue and recesses mechanism.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Embodiments will now be described with reference to the appended drawings wherein:

[0009] FIG. 1 A is a frontal view of a barbell;

[0010] FIG. 1 B is a frontal view of a barbell having one weight plate coupled thereto on either side thereof;

[0011] FIG 1C is a frontal view of a barbell having 2 weight plates coupled thereto on either side thereof.

[0012] FIG. 2 is an image showing the modular plate having 4 weight components inserted therein;

[0013] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the frame of the modular plate;

[0014] FIG. 4A is a front view of a weighted component of the modular plate system;

[0015] FIG. 4B is a back view of a weighted component of the modular plate system;

[0016] FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of the preferred coupler;

[0017] FIG. 6A is cross-sectional perspective view of the preferred coupler;

[0018] FIG. 6B is top perspective view of the interior of the preferred coupler; 2

RECTIFIED SHEET (RULE 91.1) [0019] FIG. 7A is a back view of the modular plate with the weighted components inserted therein;

[0020] FIG. 7B is a back perspective view of the modular plate with the weighted components inserted therein;

[0021] FIG. 8A a magnification of a front view of the hub engaging the tongue of one of the coupler;

[0022] FIG. 8B a magnification of a front view of the hub engaging the tongue of 4 of the couplers;

[0023] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an alternative frame design;

[0024] FIG. 10 is a partial perspective assembly view of a second embodiment of the modular plate frame and weighted component;

[0025] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the weighted component of the second embodiment of the modular plate;

[0026] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the weighted component of the second embodiment of the modular plate with the securement rocker in the engaged position;

[0027] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the weighted component of the second embodiment of the modular plate with the securement rocker in the released position;

[0028] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the weighted component of the second embodiment of the modular plate engaged with male coupler of the frame;

[0029] FIG. 15 is perspective view of the weighted component of the second embodiment of the modular plate and the male coupler of the frame;

[0030] FIG. 16 is a partial perspective view of the weighted component of the third embodiment of the modular plate inserted into the frame;

[0031] FIG. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view of the weighted component of the third embodiment of the modular plate inserted into the frame; and

[0032] FIG. 18 is a partial perspective view of the frame of the third embodiment of the modular plate with the securement rocker in the engaged position.

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RECTIFIED SHEET (RULE 91.1) DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] The following pertains to a weightlifting plate that is fully customizable, easy-to- use, and that can be stored easily. Specifically, an adjustable dumbbell or barbell plate is provided.

[0034] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a modular plate 12 adapted for use with a weightlifting bar. While the modular plate 12 shown in the present disclosure is adapted for use with an Olympic bar, a person skilled in the art can appreciate that the modular plate 12 could easily be adapted for use with alternative bar designs, such as but not limited to, multi grip or swiss grip bars, trap bars, chamber bars squat bars, loadable dumbbell bars, standard barbells, curl bars, tricep bars, thick grip bars, axle bars, and farmers walk apparatuses.

[0035] The modular plate 12 comprises a frame 14 for receiving at least one weighted component 16. The preferred embodiment shown in the figures includes 4 evenly distributed weighted components 16, however, it can be appreciated that the modular plate 12 could be configured to accept more or less weighted components. The weighted components 16 can be selectively coupled to or removed from the frame 16 to provide an assortment of plate weights using a single plate frame.

[0036] The frame 14, shown in figure 3, comprises a boarder 16 which defines the overall shape and provides an outer frame for the modular plate 12. In the preferred embodiment show in the figures, the frame 14 is round. However, it can be appreciated that the modular plate could have an alternative overall shape, for example square, pentagon, hexagon, or octagon, without deviating from the inventive concept. The frame 14 includes a central support body 18 preferably located at the center of the frame 14. Spokes 20 couple the central support body 18 to an interior edge 22 of the frame 14. The central support body 18 have a hole 24, sized to receive a receiving portion of a bar. The central support body 18 further includes a hub 24 for facilitating a connection to the weight components 16 as described in detail below.

[0037] As shown in figure 2, it is preferable that each weight component 16 generally corresponds to the shape defined by two adjacent spokes 20, the portion of the frame between the two adjacent spokes and the portion of the hub 24 between the two adjacent spokes . As shown in the preferred embodiment of figure 3, the frame 14 has a raised ridge 26 which cooperates with spoke ridges 28 to define a setting into which each weight component can be inserted. These ridges provide optional additional support to maintain the

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RECTIFIED SHEET (RULE 91.1) position of the weight component 16 when it is inserted into the frame. Frame further includes retention tabs 28 on the frame between each of pair of adjacent spokes. The retention tab 30 extends inwardly from a top surface 32 of the frame to provide a small overhang under which the weight component 16 can be inserted. This retention tab is one option for securing the outer edge of the weight component in the frame. It would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that other method of retaining the weight component 16 at the outer edge thereof would be possible. It can further be appreciated that in some embodiments, the retention tabs may not be necessary. While it is preferred that the retention tab be positioned generally centrally on the frame between adjacent spokes, it can be appreciated that alternative positions would be possible, including but not limited to extending from the spoke ridges 28.

[0038] Turning to figure 4, the weight component 16 includes a body 34 and a coupler 36. In the preferred embodiment, body is shaped to allow the coupler 36 to be inset therein. This allows for the weight components 16 to be easily stackable and reduces the required storage space. The body 34 has the primary function of providing additional weight when inserted into the frame. As such, the body is preferably made of iron or steel, however alternative materials would be known to a person skilled in the art. The body could then be coated with a rubber, plastic, urethane, or alternative finish to provide increased durability and/or a pleasing esthetic. In an alternate embodiment, the body comprises a formed outer shell which is filled with sand, and/or metal or plastic pellets to provide the desired weight.

[0039] The coupler is preferably located at the inner most edge of the weight component and is coupled to the body 34 by any suitable means. In the preferred embodiment shown in the figures, it is coupled to the body via rivets 38. However, it can be appreciated that the coupler 36 could be fixed to the body 34 using any method known to a person skilled in the art.

[0040] Each coupler 36 is adapted to cooperate with one side 40 of the hub 24 and the frame 14 to fix the weighted component 16 to the frame 14. While there are various couplings that would be suitable to removably fix the weighted component 16 to the frame 14, the preferred embodiment includes a tongue 42 protruding from the coupler 36 for engagement with a recess or slot in the central support body of the frame 14. The tongue 42 is normally biased to an extended position wherein it extends outwardly from a coupler enclosure 56. The tongue 42 is retracted by depressing button 44.

[0041] Figures 6A and 6B show the internal structure of the preferred coupler 36. The tongue 42 has an internal body portion 46 having side walls 48 (only one shown in the cross

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RECTIFIED SHEET (RULE 91.1) section of figure 6A) and a backwall 50. The backwall 50 preferably includes an inclined surface 52 at the top portion thereof.

[0042] The button 44 of the coupler 36 includes an engagement portion 54 extending through a hole in the upper surface 61 of the coupler enclosure 56 and extends outwardly above the coupler enclosure 56. Located within the coupler enclosure 56 and extending downwardly from the engagement portion 54 is a button body 58 having a recess 60 therein. The recess 60 is sized to receive a pin 62 extending upward from a bottom inner surface 64 of the coupler enclosure 56. This pin 62 and recess 60 arrangement assists in ensuring the button 44 remains aligned with the coupler enclosure 56. The button body 58 further includes and inclined surface 66 which is configured to be generally parallel to the inclined surface 52 of the backwall 50 of the tongue 42.

[0043] As the engagement portion 54 of the button 44 is engaged by pushing downward toward the coupler enclosure 56, the inclined surface 66 of the button body 58 engages the inclined surface 52 of the back wall of the tongue 42 and retracts the tongue 42 at least partially into the coupler enclosure 56.

[0044] The frame 14, as shown in figures 3 and 6, includes recesses 68 in the central support body 18 to engage at least a portion of the tongue 42. In one embodiment the tongue includes a slightly downturned tip to fit into and engage the recess 68. In a preferred embodiment shown in figures 8A and 8B, a bottom surface of the hub 72 overhangs at least a portion of the top surface 70 of the tongue 42. In the preferred embodiment, the hub includes a tab 84 extending from there side thereof to engage the top surface 70 of the tongue 42. this optional feature, this provides further securement of the weighted component 16 to the frame 14.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment shown in figures 7 A and 7B, the weighted components 16 and the coupler 36 are oriented such that the buttons 44 are inwardly arranged within the frame. This orientation allows for protection of the engagement portion of the button during operation and minimizes the chances of the weighted component 16 being mistakenly released. The frame 14 can optionally include reinforcing ribs 78 on the backside there of. This not only provides structural support to the frame, but also provides some depth to protect from accidental activation of the button 44. In this embodiment, an aperture 79 can be provided in each weighted component 16 to allow access to the button 44 from a front side of the modular plate 12. In a preferred embodiment, the aperture 79 is shaped such that it can also be used as a handle to provide an easy and comfortable method for handling the weighted components 16. In one embodiment, the aperture 79 is 6

RECTIFIED SHEET (RULE 91.1) shaped to accept the diameter of a standard Olympic bar. In this embodiment, the weighted components can be stored on standard weight storage bars or pegs.

[0046] In yet a further preferred embodiment, the weighted components 16 can be further secured to the frame with magnets 88, set within the frame. These magnets help reduce shake, rattle, and vibration of the weight components 16 when they are inserted into the frame 14. Any number of magnets could be used; however it is preferred if there are at least two magnets located in the outer corners of each receiving slot for each weighted component 16.

[0047] The weighted components can range in size and weight. For example, for heavy lifts, such as squats or deadlifts, the weighted components could be quite heavy, for example each being 10 -25 lbs. In alternative embodiments, the weighted components could be adapted to be lighter for example in the range of 2.5- 10 lbs. One advantage of the system disclosed herein, is that depending on the user’s needs, they could choose to add more or less weighted components of equal weights, or they could have a collection of heavier weighted components and lighter weighted components, both compatible with the same frame, from which to choose. This allows for a large selection of weights without requiring a plethora of plates.

[0048] While the preferred embodiment shown in the drawings includes 4 weighted components, it can be appreciated that the modular plate 12 could be configured to accept more or less weighted components. For example, one embodiment could include only 2 weighted components, each occupying approximately half of the frame. Alternatively, the modular plate could be configured to include many weighted components, for example 10 weighted components. While the preferred embodiment shows weighted components that are generally equal in size, it can be appreciated that various sized weighted components could be provided with appropriated cooperative frame. Various sized weighted components would allow the user more choice in weight combinations when lifting.

[0049] Additionally, while the current frame shows four spokes each corresponding to a location for receiving a weighted component, it can be appreciated that more or less spokes could be used. The spokes could either correspond to the boarders of the locations for receiving weighted components, or they could be provided simply for additional support and/or aesthetics. One such example is shown in figure 9.

[0050] The described modular plate simplifies the weight change process during a workout. For Example, if a user wants to adjust their weighted bar from 45 lbs to 25 lbs on one side of the barbell. With a flat plate, the user will probably have a 45 lb plate already on

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RECTIFIED SHEET (RULE 91.1) the barbell, they will have to remove the 40 lb plate and and then put on another 20 lb plate or two 10 lb plates. This adds time to their workout and is more difficult to use than the modular plate system taught herein. With the modular plate, the user may have four 10 lb weighted components inserted in the frame having a weight of 5 lbs. The user would simply remove two of the weighted components to achieve their desired 25 lbs. They do not have to remove the frame or replace pates, making the change over time faster and more efficient than traditional systems. Furthermore, it is inconvenient when storing the traditional plates as they are typically stored on peg stands. If a user wants access to a larger flat plate, they have to remove and rearrange all the flat plates stored above it.

[0051] In the preferred embodiment, the weighted component is inserted into the frame by first inserting the outer edge 80 under the retaining tab 30. The button 44 is then activated such that the tongue is retracted into the coupler enclosure 56. The weighted component is moved into the inserted position and the button 44 is released. This allows the tongue to extend outwardly from the coupler enclosure 56 and engage the recess in the frame 14. The tongue 42 is captured between a recess in the frame 14 on one side of the tongue and a bottom surface of the hub on the other. This process is repeated for each of the weighted component 16 as desired by the user.

[0052] The frame 14 can be made of any suitable material, for example but not limited to, plastics, metals, or cast iron. However, the use of plastic, particularly polyethylene, has been shown to have good durability, a light weight and sufficient strength to hold substantially heavy modular weights.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, the frame 14 is 5 lbs in weight. Weighted components of various weights can be inserted into the frame. Example modular weights units would come in 10 lbs, 20 lbs, 25, lbs, 5 lbs, or 2.5 lbs denominations.

Alternative embodiments

[0054] While the preferred embodiment is shown in figures 2-9, there are alternative methods of coupling the modular weights to the frame. Two such examples will be discussed below.

Alternate mechanism 1

[0055] Figure 10 shows the use of a male component on the frame to cooperate with a female component on the modular weight. Referring to figures 10 and 11 , the frame 100 includes a male coupler 102 extending upward from at least one portion of the frame configured for receiving a weighted component 104. In the preferred embodiment, the male 8

RECTIFIED SHEET (RULE 91.1) coupler 102 is generally cylindrical in shape with a ridge 106 at the top edge thereof. While the examples show the male coupling component as cylindrical, it can be appreciated that other shapes would also be suitable.

[0056] The weighted component 104 includes a female coupler 107, having a main body 108 configured to receive the male coupler 102 in a central cavity 110 in the middle thereof. The main body 108 has a series of orifices 112 therein to allow for the protrusion of securing rockers 114 into the central cavity 110. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the securement rockers are hooklike devices, however, it can be appreciated that other configurations of securement devices could also be used. The securement rockers 114 are preferably spring biased in an outward or disengaged direction. A sleeve 116 surrounds the main body 108 and includes a protrusion 118 which, when in an engaged position, pushes the securement rockers inwardly through the orifices 112 and into the central cavity 110.

The sleeve 116 is movable between an engaged position, shown in figure 13 and a disengaged position, shown in figure 14, by lifting the sleeve in an upwards direction compared to the body of the modular weight 101. This allows the protrusion 118 to clear the corresponding orifice 112 and allows the securement rocker to retract backwards, clear of the central cavity 110. When in use, the securement rockers are configured to engage the ridge 106 of the male coupler 102. This secures the weighted component 104 to the frame 100

[0057] The female coupler 107 can be coupled to the weighted component 104 in any suitable manner, however in the preferred embodiment shown in figures 10 to 15 the main body 108 is coupled to the weighted component 104 using a threaded ring 124. One advantage of this design lies in the fact that it allows the sleeve 116 to move freely but still allows assembly of the spring, rocker and main body with relative ease. In the preferred embodiment, the main body 108 includes a hex shape at the top of the central cavity 110 to allow for the use of common tools to facilitate tightening of the main body 108 and the threaded ring 124.

[0058] When in use, the securement rockers 114 are configured to engage the ridge 106 of the male coupling component 102. This secures the weighted component 104 to the frame 100. To load a weighted component 104 on to an empty male coupler 102 on the frame 100, a user grips the sleeve 116, pulling upward to allow the securement rockers 114 to retract. The weighted component is lowered onto the male coupler 102. The sleeve is then released and the securement rockers 114 protrude through orifices 112 and engage the underside of the ridge 106 of the male coupler 102. It should be noted, than in some

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RECTIFIED SHEET (RULE 91.1) embodiments, the sleeve may not need to be manually engaged to load the weighted component 104 on to the male component but could be loaded by aligning the weighted component with the male coupler 102 and pushing down. The bias of the securement rockers 114 could be overcome to allow the weighted component 104 to be loaded on to the male component 102.

Alternate mechanism 2

[0059] Figures 16 to 18 shown yet another possible attachment mechanism to couple the weighted components to a frame. This embodiment utilizes at least one latch 200 on the each receiving portion of the frame 202. As shown in figure 16, the latch can be located at the outermost edge of the receiving portion. Alternatively to, or in combination with the top latch 208, side latches 210 located on the sidewalls of the receiving portion can also be included. As shown in the cross section of figure 17, the weighted component 204 is inserted into the receiving portion of the frame 202. The bottom edge of the weighted component 204 is placed under an overhang 206 extending from the top surface 218 of the receiving portion of the frame 202. This overhang secures at least one edge of the weighted component 204 to the frame 202. In can be appreciated that up to 3 sides of the weighted component could be secured using an overhang. The latches 208 and 210, are spring biased to an engaged position where the latch 208 or 210 extends into the retaining portion. In order to load or unload a weight, the latch 208 or 210 is retracted outwardly. The latch 208 or 210 has an overhang 212 which engages a top surface 214 of the weighted component 204 when inserted.

[0060] It should be noted that magnets could also be used in this embodiment to further secure the weighted component 204 to the frame 202. These magnets 216 are shown in figure 18.

[0061] Although the invention has been described with reference to certain specific embodiments, various modifications thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as outlined in the claims appended hereto.

[0062] The terms “comprise”, “comprises”, “comprised” or “comprising” may be used in the present description. As used herein (including the specification and/or the claims), these terms are to be interpreted as specifying the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components, but not as precluding the presence of one or more other feature, integer, step, component or a group thereof as would be apparent to persons having ordinary skill in 10

RECTIFIED SHEET (RULE 91.1) the relevant art. Thus, the term "comprising" as used in this specification means "consisting at least in part of. When interpreting statements in this specification that include that term, the features, prefaced by that term in each statement, all need to be present but other features can also be present. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprised" are to be interpreted in the same manner.

[0063] The term "and/or" can mean "and" or "or".

[0064] Unless stated otherwise herein, the article “a” when used to identify any element is not intended to constitute a limitation of just one and will, instead, be understood to mean “at least one” or “one or more”

[0065] Although the above description includes reference to certain specific embodiments, various modifications thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Any examples provided herein are included solely for the purpose of illustration and are not intended to be limiting in any way. Any drawings provided herein are solely for the purpose of illustrating various aspects of the description and are not intended to be drawn to scale or to be limiting in any way. The scope of the claims appended hereto should not be limited by the preferred embodiments set forth in the above description but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the present specification as a whole.

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RECTIFIED SHEET (RULE 91.1)